Italy 24-73 France: Visitors keep alive Six Nations title hopes

France secured a resounding victory over Italy with 11 tries in a high-scoring affair, setting the stage for a potential Six Nations Championship final against Ireland, who are also vying for the Grand Slam. The match featured a total of 14 tries, breaking the previous tournament record of 12 in a single game, and also marked France's highest score in a Six Nations match. This dominant performance underscores France's attacking prowess and their ambition to secure the championship.

In a thrilling first half that yielded 52 points, Italy initially took the lead with a try from Tommaso Menoncello, but France quickly responded with three tries to regain control. Tries were locked in by Mickaël Jallibert, hooker Peato Mauvaka, and captain Antoine Dupont in succession, before Ignacio Brex's try offered renewed hope for the home side. Flanker Paul Boudehent's powerful breakthrough earned France a bonus-point try, and full-back Léo Barré's score extended the visitors' lead. The back-and-forth nature of the first half highlighted the intensity and competitiveness of the match.

The second half saw no let-up from Fabien Galthié's side, with Grégory Alldritt, Louis Bielle-Biarrey, and man-of-the-match Dupont adding further tries. Paolo Garbisi scored a third try for the hosts, but a ruthless France finished strongly with scores from Barré, Théo Attissogbe, and Pierre-Louis Barassi. France's 73 points was also the second-highest score in a single game in the Championship, only surpassed by England's 80 points against Italy in 2001. This relentless attacking display solidified France's dominance and showcased their offensive capabilities.

The result means Galthié's team are three points behind leaders Ireland, whom they face in Dublin on March 8, while Italy host England at the Stadio Olimpico on March 9. If "Les Bleus" are to win the Six Nations for the first time since 2022, they now head to Dublin knowing that a win – given their superior points difference – would likely put them in pole position to take the title. The upcoming match against Ireland is crucial for France's championship aspirations.

France captain Antoine Dupont, speaking to ITV, said: "It was a tough match, especially at the beginning. We were able to keep the intensity for 80 minutes, which wasn't easy for Italy, so we can be proud. There were a lot of good things against England, but when we had to score, we made mistakes. Today, it was better. We know it will be a big match in Dublin. We have two weeks to prepare for it, but it will be tough for sure." Italy head coach Gonzalo Quesada said: "When France play like that, when they play that kind of rugby, it's very difficult, but I don't think the score reflects the difference between the two teams. We defended well for 20 minutes, but when all you do is defend, it's difficult, especially when France play like that and Antoine Dupont has a day like that. The way they played was awesome." Dupont's leadership and France's improved execution were key factors in their victory, while Quesada acknowledged the difficulty of facing a dominant French team.